Silverstone expansion plans approved

A motorsport museum will be built at Silverstone as part of a redevelopment project which has been granted planning permission.

South Northamptonshire and Aylesbury Vale district councils approved the British Racing Drivers' Club's plans, which were submitted last year.

A technology park, education campus and three hotels will also be built at the Northamptonshire track.

It is hoped the redevelopment will create 8,400 permanent jobs.

Councillor Mary Clarke, leader of South Northamptonshire Council, said: "This will help maintain Silverstone's position as a leading global centre for sport, leisure, education and technology and retain its position as a world-leading motorsport destination."

Richard Phillips, managing director of Silverstone Holdings Ltd, the commercial arm of the British Racing Drivers' Club, said: "This is the most important initiative that Silverstone has taken in its 60-year history as the home of British motorracing."